Philly CBS properties team up for ‘digital newsstands’

In an interesting cross-platform initiative, CBS has launched 39 digital newsstands in the Philadelphia area.

The stands, branded under the name “CBS Always On,” were converted from existing newsstands and feature an electronic ticker and high definition video monitor. The media outlets owned by CBS will provide news and information to the displays.

The stands are also wired to provide emergency information and Amber Alerts.

The stands provide a natural extension for the CBS stations locally. “CBS 3 and The CW Philly have expanded our Eyewitness News brand across both stations, online and to cell phones,” says President and General Manager Jon Hitchcock. “Providing a street-level news service is another way to provide the viewer with the news and information they need wherever they are and whenever they need it. Ultimately, we want CBS to be the news source locally.”